u/sakarr90

One of my favorite spots in all of the CLE. I can't believe this used to be a strip mall surrounded by stroads just ten years ago

This is the Van Aken district in suburban Cleveland (Shaker Hts). It used to be a collection of strip malls around a bunch of stroads. It took decades, hundreds of millions, and a city that was determined, but it's now a thriving mixed use downtown for Shaker. Two of the stroads, Northfield Rd and Van Aken Blvd, were eliminated in the area, and new streets were laid in the former shopping plaza. The main intersection of Chagrin and Warrensville was also right-sized. Now instead there are hundreds of apartments and offices over shops, a food hall, and activity areas, all around a light rail station that is currently being rebuilt. Even better is the new street in front of the Market Hall has even been shut down to be permanent outdoor dining and a concert area.

When I think of this area in terms of suburbs, it gives me hope. If that literal horror of an intersection can be reborn, I think anywhere can. I just wish it didn't take so much time and money.

First pic is OC from right now as I sit in an Adirondack chair enjoying an iced coffee. I purposely waited so there weren't many people in the Pic, but it's quite busy here. Second pic is from Google.

This one from Cleveland.bomb makes last weeks Crain's AI picture look good

A gem in the Emerald Necklace - Euclid Beach

Need I say more?

(Photo taken FROM the CN Tower)